Spring clearout recycler wins £1000

The prize was donated by the borough's recycling and waste contactor, Veolia Environmental Services as part of Southwark Council's campaign to get residents to recycle as much as possible during their spring clearout.

The competition asked residents to make a pledge to recycle everything they could as part of their spring clearout. It also encouraged them to send in their own top recycling tips.

Claire was selected at random from almost 1000 people who entered the competition, which closed on 31 May 2010. Her top recycling tip was: "Make recycling fun and include your children - after all, they are the future!"

Southwark Council's cabinet member for transport, environment and recycling, Cllr. Barrie Hargrove, visited her at home to make the presentation and congratulate her in person.

Claire said: "My family think I'm obsessed with recycling as I'm always trying to recycle everything. I think it's good for the children to see how important this is, and they're really good and now know what can and can't be recycled. I try to buy as many things as possible that don't have packaging but that's not always possible, but anything I do buy which can be recycled I try to."

Councillor Barrie Hargrove said: "I'm very happy we were able to visit Claire and present her with her prize money. It was great for me to see for myself the work she is doing at home, great work which makes a difference to our borough. As a council we are determined to do our bit by doubling the recycling rate by 2014, and we couldn't do this without the dedication and thoughtfulness of residents like Claire."

Simon Bussell, managing director for Veolia Environmental Services in Southwark said: "We know that lots of residents in Southwark make a real effort with recycling and it is fantastic to be able to reward someone who is doing their bit. I hope Claire's win will inspire anyone who isn't recycling yet to think about taking part."

Southwark Council also runs a regular recycling reward program in which five residents a month are rewarded with £200, just for recycling.

Further information

Residents can contact 020 7525 2423 or visit www.southwark.gov.uk/recycle for advice and assistance about recycling in Southwark.

Veolia Environmental Services was awarded a 25 year PFI waste management contract by Southwark Council in February, 2008. The company's fully integrated strategy includes waste minimisation, collection, transfer, recycling, composting, pre-treatment and disposal. For more information please visit Veolia.